Dust to Glory (2005)

Strong and Moving!

good back-story, and good acting

Good films always raise compelling questions, whether the format is fiction or documentary fact.

The movie turns out to be a little better than the average. Starting from a romantic formula often seen in the cinema, it ends in the most predictable (and somewhat bland) way.

Not particularly interested in a 1000-mile Baja road race? Don't worry; doesn't matter. As he did with "Step Into Liquid," writer-director Dana Brown hooks you from the get-go, involving you in the subject, the action and, most importantly, the people who participate.Aside from coping with the logistics of producing this film (a remarkable achievement in itself), the lively and sometimes poetic assemblage of breathtaking photography is impressive enough, but Brown (son of legendary documentarian Bruce Brown) takes the endeavor a step beyond; he's not only a skilled filmmaker, but an excellent reporter, as well. He seeks out and relates the stories behind the action and images by zeroing in on the personalities involved, supplying not only context, but the drama that the added human dimension provides. The passion and commitment of the participants can't help but grab you, and their camaraderie and sense of personal connection make you feel welcomed as "one of the gang" at a family reunion (even if a little envious of the fun they're having).Backed by Nathan Furst's rousing original score, DUST TO GLORY is, by turns, thrilling, funny, touching, astonishing and terrifying...and always mesmerizing. Regardless of your personal interest - or lack thereof - it's nigh impossible to resist the enthusiasm behind both the race and the film documenting it. Each, in its own way, is a death-defying feat, and together they provide an experience you'd be hard-pressed to find with many other films. As he's done before with surfing, and now the Baja road race, Mr. Brown turned my "I wonder why I rented THIS?" to an "I'm SO glad I watched this." I begin to get the feeling he could make a documentary about basket weaving fascinating. And if he ever makes one, I'll see it.

Thank you Dana Brown and Scott Waugh and company. DUST TO GLORY reminds everyone that one of the most important things in life is, never give up. Set aside the amazing footage, the human interest drama, the daring helo shots from every angle, the day and night forced marches, even forget the heart felt interviews, it's all about never giving up. The story of the McMillan family is proof. They are incredibly successful in business and they're even more successful in life because they never give up. From the Weatherman to the Class 11 competitors to the brilliant Ricky Johnson, it doesn't get any better than this. Mouse McCoy is a god. What better message can a movie have? Never, ever give up.

Unbelievable race footage from all perspectives. All the race vehicles are covered from the Motorcycles (my favorite), Trophy trucks and buggies to the Class 11 VW beetle Dana Brown more than captured the essence of the Baja race. You will feel as though you are there. The interviews only add to this great film by getting into the heads of those who have actually raced the Baja 1000. There is also some excellent bonus footage that MUST be watched! I bought the movie and watched it at least 4 times. This movie can be watched by just about any person, I would imagine even non race fans would like it. I say buy this movie and watch it, then tell everyone you know to do the same! I wish the movie was twice as long because you just don't want it to end!

I am normally not a big documentary fan, but Dust to Glory really impressed me. First off, the Baja 1000 is the coolest race ever. I imagine that if you were able to read minds, you would find that everyone leaving the theater would be thinking 'Baja 1000... wow. I wonder if I could do that'. Now I dream of one day competing in the Baja 1000. Dust to Glory will convert everyone in the audience into a Baja 1000 addict and you will leave in awe of the competitors and the race itself. Tons of energy, emotion and dirt. Great stories, characters and beautiful locations. Dana, we won't be staging any interventions for a long time.